We departed Fuerte Amador, Panama on the 11th, a 3,900-mile voyage ahead of us, crossing the vastness of the Pacific Ocean. Our schedule calls for us to arrive off the French Polynesian island of Nuka Hiva mid-morning of the 20th.
One might imagine that these days at sea would be relatively quiet and I suppose, when one considers the demanding days of Canal transits and ports of call, they are. However, the ship never sleeps, so to speak and my responsibilities involve more of management and HR role as well as the commencement of Social functions. The emails never stop coming, both internal and external, our corporate offices, distant ports of call and French Polynesia itself. Here, the numerous islands we call at have one central ‘hub’ of communications, Papeete, Tahiti and it is to and from there that our communications travel. Further afield, I have been in ‘correspondence’ with Australia and even Singapore, which is 2 months away.
Today we are in sunshine once more, the past 2 days having been under overcast skies and heavy rain; our sun-worshippers are out on deck again and happy.
Our first Captain’s dinner last night. Every guest who does the full-world cruise has the opportunity to dine with officers in our Pinnacle grill. A special menu and wines make for good conversation.
Guests arriving for dinner
Our Cellar Master, Jacques and his assistants
Tina, our Pinnacle Grill Manager
Our wonderful ladies
My table.
Following the dinner, we had our Black and Silver Ball, the ladies looking resplendent in their finery, the dance floor and stage crowded with revellers. (The more accomplished dancers used the stage, we less-so remained relatively incognito on the floor) 😉
Lunchtime today and the Suite guests are invited to an ‘Amuse’ banquet.
Have a great cruise. Love to Karen. Xxx
Thanks Stella and hugs to you both ?
I have been unable to register to receive the Captain’s blog for the Amsterdam 2016 world cruise-can you assist me. Thanks.
Hello David, presumably you are referring to the ‘button’ to register, on the post page? Is it not functioning, I can’t tell from my end, so let me know
Captain Jonathan, Thanks for your update. Smooth sailing to you and cheers.
Another great update – but it sure gave me a jolt reading the date on it!
Sir, I must say you had me worried with the title of your post. I didn’t think that my memory was so bad that I’d forget a whole month. Enjoying your posts and insights as always.
Oops 🙂 My mind must have been elsewhere, wishful thinking perhaps? Thank you for pointing out my error and we are now back to ‘reality’ 🙂
Just crossed the Sydney Harbour Bridge into Sydney’s CBD and saw the funnel with the distinctive HAL logo – the Noordam is in port!
Allan Gibson OAM
Sydney Australia
Saw the title of today’s blog (14th February) and said – oh no, I am in trouble, I forgot Valentine’s Day. Then I realized I still have another month to go. Whew. Love reading your daily reports, as always.
Captain Jonathan – good to receive the update. Weather in Sydney is not inviting, yesterday (Thurs local time) 39 c then a huge storm, strong winds and still raining with a forecast top of 20 c today Friday. Let’s hope your arrival in Sydney will be into a port without a rough entry through the heads and a very pleasant stay for you, the crew and your guests!
Regards
Allan Gibson OAM
Guest ex Seattle September 6 ’15
You must be romantic! You’re already thinking about Valentine’s Day when it’s only January.